Pool Skimmer Basket Roller Guide for Drawer Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing skimmers for outdoor swimming pools disrupt the uniform tile pattern of the pool edge and can become hot and uncomfortable due to metallic manhole covers, making it difficult to access the skimmer basket for cleaning.
Innovation Solution
The skimmer basket is mounted on a roller guide for horizontal movement within the pool wall, allowing easy removal and cleaning by pulling it out like a drawer, with a snap or latch connection for secure positioning and a spring locking device for easy release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an access panel is provided for removing the skimmer basket, then the basket can be removed for cleaning, but the access panel disrupts the uniform tile pattern and heats up in sunlight
Solution Approach 1:
The skimmer basket is extracted from its traditional fixed position within the skimmer housing and mounted on a roller guide system that allows it to be pulled out horizontally like a drawer. This eliminates the need for a separate access panel, as the basket itself becomes the access point when pulled out. The roller guide is integrated into the skimmer housing, maintaining the uniform appearance of the pool edge while enabling easy basket removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller guide mechanism serves multiple functions: it guides the basket during removal, supports the basket weight, and integrates seamlessly into the skimmer housing structure. The vertical front surface of the skimmer housing serves both as a structural component and as a cover that integrates with the pool wall design, eliminating the need for a separate access panel.
2Reliability
If the skimmer basket is fixed in the skimmer housing, then it is securely positioned, but it is difficult to remove for cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The skimmer basket is transformed from a static, fixed component to a dynamic, movable one. The roller guide system allows the basket to move horizontally along a defined path, transitioning from a secured position during operation to an easily removable position for cleaning. The spring-loaded latching device provides automatic securing during normal use but allows quick release when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional mechanical fixing system (screws, clips, or tight fits) is replaced with a roller guide and spring-loaded latching system. This new mechanism uses rolling motion instead of sliding or forcing the basket out, reducing friction and making removal significantly easier while maintaining secure positioning during operation.
3Ease of operation
If a sliding guide is used for the skimmer basket, then the basket can be moved out, but tilting or jamming occurs during removal
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding guide is replaced with a roller guide system that uses cylindrical rollers instead of flat sliding surfaces. This curved rolling contact reduces friction dramatically and allows the basket to move out smoothly without tilting or jamming. The rollers are mounted on the vertical front surface of the skimmer housing, providing a stable, guided path for basket removal.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design simplifies the removal and cleaning process of the skimmer basket, preventing tilting or jamming, maintaining the pool edge's aesthetic and providing comfortable access while ensuring secure basket positioning.
Implementation Method 1
The guide for the skimmer basket is a smooth-running roller guide, which offers the least resistance compared to a sliding guide.
Implementation Method 2
a spring-loaded latching device can also be used, which preferably has a cam guide with respective chamfers on the elastic cam guides in both directions of movement.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a skimmer for a pool, in particular a swimming pool, comprising a housing with at least one inlet opening located at the level of the liquid level in the pool wall and framed by a baffle, and a skimmer basket, below which a drain nozzle connected to a pump is arranged, so that the water flowing into the inlet opening flows over the skimmer basket into the drain nozzle. According to the invention, the skimmer basket is mounted directly or indirectly on a roller or sliding guide and is movable horizontally towards and away from the pool.